The Sphynx is among the most beloved cat breeds in the US, and hairless cats, in general, are common pets all over the world. Many people prefer fluffy pets and they might wonder why Sphynxes and other bald beauties are so popular.
The reasons Sphynxes and other hairless cats are popular include their low allergenic potential – not due to being bald but because they produce smaller amounts of a common allergen. These animals are also very sociable and get along with other pets. No fur means no shedding issues, although there are still some regular care and maintenance needs, just like with any other pet. A bald kitty’s skin feels like suede or velvet and could be very therapeutic to the touch.
4 REASONS WHY SPHYNX CATS ARE SO POPULAR
Sphynx felines are always in the top 10 most popular cat breeds in the US. This particular breed is not quite as common outside North America but other hairless cats are among the top contesters on the popularity lists in many countries all over the world. Other bald breeds have little in common with the Sphynx, other than the feature of being hairless but the reasons people choose bald cats across the globe are probably quite similar.
1. Friendly Personality
Whether or not you find these sweethearts particularly cute, Sphynx cats might be the gems of the feline world when it comes to their personalities.
The Journal of Veterinary Behavior published an article exploring the behavior of different cat breeds toward people. The published study found Sphynx cats to be the friendliest breed of felines, at least toward people.
Anecdotally, Sphynx cats are known to be dog-like. They like to greet their owners at the door and enjoy playing fetch. Generally, they tend to respond to their names and commands more consistently than most kitties do.
Sphynx cats are also amicable with other cats, dogs, and other pets in general. These animals usually need some time to adjust to any new members of the family, just like any other pet. A sphynx cat is, however, very likely to do well with all friendly members of your household.
Sphynx cats love to play and interact, so they are fabulous pets for families with children. Of course, the kiddos should learn to be respectful of their pet’s space as soon as they are old enough to understand. A Sphynx is likely to be patient with children.
2. Lower Allergenic Potential (But Not Because They Are Bald)
Many people assume that hairless cats are hypoallergenic. In reality, Sphynx cats are indeed known to be less likely to cause allergies but it is not because they are hairless.
Most people are sensitive to a protein called Fel d1 produced by cats but there are eight other proteins made by felines that can cause allergies. Since saliva and oils secreted by sebaceous glands have much higher concentrations of the Fel d1 protein than fur, the fact that Sphynx cats are hairless is not that important.
Sphynx cats, as well as several other breeds, produce smaller amounts of Fel d1 than most cats. That is the reason sensitive individuals are less likely to react to them.
If a person is highly sensitive or is allergic to another protein that could also be secreted by a Sphynx, then they could still experience an allergic reaction.
3. No Shedding
An obvious advantage is that Sphynx cats do not shed much, if at all. It does not, however, mean that there is less maintenance when it comes to caring for these pets and keeping your home clean. It is just a different kind of maintenance.
Sphynx cats still produce dander and their skin can be oily. Some kitties could even leave traces on surfaces and furniture but this issue can be minimized with proper care.
Hairless felines need baths and possibly some lotion once in a while. They are more likely to have problems with their skin than regular kitties so it is important to find a skincare routine that works well for your pet.
4. Breed Loyalty
Some pet parents strongly prefer bald kitties for very specific reasons.
The suede feel of their skin can be very therapeutic and many people enjoy petting and cuddling these very friendly cats. Some cat owners love the exotic look of the Sphynx. These cats have their unique charisma, taking both their peculiar looks and amicable personalities into account.
It often becomes a family feature to have bald kitties as members of the household. These animals are very distinctive and no one else can compare to them in the eyes of their loving owners.
To Conclude
Your reasons to welcome a Sphynx into your home may be practical, due to allergies, for example. It could also be the personality of this breed that has won your heart for hairless kitties. One way or another, a hairless feline is still a cat that could come with some behavioral or maintenance issues, like any other pet.
